There’s so much hoopla right now for 2025, and most destinations being highlighted are either up and coming, a swing and a miss, or too far-flung to care.
Sometimes, the best trips happen when you stick to the icons. Man, does Italy have some icons or what?
Although one unknown city was just named Italy’s top destination for 2025, I’m sad to say Brixen won’t be reachable from either of the exciting new flights just announced.
It goes without saying that Italy is one of Europe’s most sought-after destinations, especially for Americans looking to live out their dreams in the very streets shown in some of our favorite cinematic portrayals.
Word to the wise – maybe stick to Lady and the Tramp’s noodle-slurping rather than reenact The Italian Job.
Coming in 2025, both United and lesser-known Italian carrier, Neos, will be adding new flights to their network, including a history-making flight for the ladder.
United’s New Nonstop Flight To Rome
Americans seeking to roam Rome should have no problem booking a flight as multiple U.S. airlines, as well as other international carriers, fly nonstop from multiple American cities.
But not Denver. That is until May 2025 when United is set to give Coloradans an epic summer escape.
Any other year, you might not question visiting one of the world’s most iconic cities, but there have been some well-documented overtourism concerns regarding the ‘Eternal City’.
For better or worse, there’s no way people are going to not visit Rome given the chance. United certainly isn’t concerned.
Here you’ll find ancient sites such as the must-visit Colisseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon ruins, and lesser-known, yet equally fascinating Baths of Caracalla and Villa Farnesina.
Not to mention, Rome offers some of the best food and wine imaginable. Famed chef Bobby Flay was recently quoted as recommending La Vita è Un Mozzico as his favorite sandwich in the world.
Make sure to check out the Roma Pass to knock out a bunch of must-see attractions without the hassle.
But first, you have to get here, right? United will first dip its toes in the water before diving in, as the initial launch will be seasonal.
According to CBS News, flights will be offered once per week on a Boeing 787-9 aircraft beginning May 1, 2025.
Neos Continues U.S. Growth With Historic Flight
If you haven’t heard of Neos, this Italian airline already offers one U.S. route (New York City to Milan).
It must be popular because they will soon be double dipping with perhaps an even more anticipated destination – a first of its kind, in fact.
Coincidentally, Milan is recognized as the ‘New York of Italy’, but many Americans won’t be seeking another urban sprawl once they discover they can fly nonstop to Bari for the first time ever!
Bari, a beautiful port city, often overshadowed by Italy’s other tourism titans, is ready to make a name for itself.
Here, you’ll find pure seaside bliss amongst small coastal villages like Mola di Bari and a stunning Old Town in the heart of Bari itself.
Not there, there’s a bad place to feast in Italy, but seafood should definitely be your go-to here as you look out at stunning views of the source, the Adriatic Sea.
On the plus side, Bari is way cheaper than Rome since it flies under the radar. Don’t believe me?
How about 4-star Hotel Barion for $63 per night?
On the downside, flights will cost a pretty penny. Neos is already advertising round-trip flights for $992. According to Simple Flying, the first-ever transatlantic flight from Bari will take off from New York’s JFK Airport once per week on Wednesdays beginning June 3, 2025.
Like United, this will also be a seasonal route, ending October 15, 2025, so enjoy it while you can!
What To Know About Neos Airlines
When we’re used to seeing a handful of recognizable paint jobs in our skies, it can be nerve-wracking hopping aboard an airline you know nothing about, especially when flying across the ocean.
As an important reminder, it’s no easy task to get clearance to fly over American airspace; just ask Pakistan International Airlines what that’s like after an 8-year hiatus.
Again, Neos has been serving the U.S. successfully for a few years and holds 3.5 stars on TripAdvisor.
Just beware: Neos is one of those airlines charging hefty fees for oversized luggage, but the good news is you can check in 24 hours in advance, unlike other lesser-known European Airlines in America’s skies (ahem, Norse).
↓ Elevate Your Travel↓
Sign Up Now For Travel Off Path Premium! No ads, VIP Content, Personal Travel Concierge, Huge Savings, Daily Deals, Members Forum & More!
✈️Join Our Travel Off Path Community Forum: Where travelers unite, ask questions, share experiences and even find like-minded travel buddies!
SUBSCRIBE TO OUR LATEST POSTS
Enter your email address to subscribe to Travel Off Path’s latest breaking travel news, straight to your inbox.
This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
